Turret type injection press



Oct. 26, 1943. R. 'I HORESON ETIAL 2,333,055

TURRET TYPE INJECTION PRESS ,Filed- Dec. 16, 1940 6 Sheets-Sheet l REIDED .THORESON WALTER ERNST Oct. 26, 1943. R. THORESON ETAL 2,333,055

TURRET TYPE INJECTIbN PRESS I Filed Dec. 16, 1940 6 Sheets-Sheet 2 REIDER THORESGJ \MQLTER ERNST Oct. 26, 1943. R, THORESON ET AL 2,333,056

' TURRET TYPE INJECTION PRESS 7 a v Flled Dec. 16, 1940 6 Sheets-Sheet 3 MOLD OPEN STATiON iNJECTlON STATION MOLD CLOSING swmou REIDED THORESON WALTER ERNST Oct. 26, 1943. R1 THORESON ETAL. I 2,333,056

' TURRET TYPE INJECTION PRESS Filed Dec. 16, 1940 6 Sheets-Sheet 4 1 Jmeum KDEQ THQRESQN WALTER ERNST 'oct. 26, 1 9 43. R! THQRESQN L 2,333,056

- TURRET TYFE INJECTION PRESS 571196 Dec. 16, 1940 6 Sheets-Sheet 5 Oct. 23, 1943. R. THOR-ESON HAL 2,333,056

. TURRET TYPE INJECTION PRESS 6 Sheets-Sheet 6 Filed Dec. 16, 1940 Jmm DEIDER THORESON WALTER ERNST J Jun n36 van: v zmihm vuuzlm 85mg Patented Oct. 26, 1943 TURRET TYPE INJECTION PRESS Reider Thoreson, Detroit, Mich, and Walter Ernst, Mount Gilead, Ohio, assignors to The Hydraulic Development Corp., Inc., Wilmington, Del., a corporation of Delaware Application December 16, 1940 Serial No. 370,318

35 Claims.

This invention relates'to machines for injection molding articles from plastic materials, the machine being of a turret type for sequential operation and which is completely automatic in its function. 1

It is an object of this invention to provide an improved arrangement of a turret type injection press, and simplified controls for establishing complete automatic operation thereof.

It is another object of the invention to provide a turret type injection press'having a more compact and unified arrangement of the operating mechanisms thereof.

It is another object of the invention to provide a hydraulic control system for an injection press of the aforementioned type wherein the ratio or the resistance to movement of the various operating mechanisms to the pressure of the hydraulic fluid determines the sequence of operation of the hydraulically actuated elements. I

It is another object of the invention to provide a turret type injection press wherein a hydraulic system is provided for closing the molds of the press prior to the time the molds are clamped by means of the main ram, the mold closing mechanism functioning independently of the mechanism for operating the main ram.

It is another object or the invention to provide a control system for a turret type injection press wherein the sequence of operations of the movements of the turret and press are controlled in a definite sequence and over definite time intervals.

It is another object of the invention to provide] a completely automatic turret type plastic injection press.

It is still a. further object of the invention to provide a completely automatic plastic injection machine wherein a plurality of molds are advanced adjacent the injection unit'of the machine, and which advancement initiates an injection cycle.

It is another object of the invention to provide an automatic turret type injection press for injection molding thermoplastic resins.

It is another object of the invention to provide a plastic injection machine for injection molding thermosetting resins wherein the cycle of operation of the machine is completely automatic to provide acontinuous molding cycle.

It is another object of the invention to provide a machine for molding thermosetting resins wherein an automatic cycle of operation is willciently rapid to permit substantially continuous ejection of material from the injection unit.

It is another object of the invention to provide an improved turret type plastic injection machine which has a rapid cycle or automatic operation and which permits the cycle of injection to be accomplished sum ntly rapid to prevent setting of thermosetting esins in the injection unit of the machine.

Further objects and advantages will be apparent from the following description and the drawings.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic system view disclosing tlfe various operating elements of a turret type injection press, and the hydraulic and electrical controls for the same.

Figure 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the turret type injection press, the injection feeding unit being shown in elevation.

Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the main ram and booster therefor.

Figure 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken substantially along line 4-4 of Figure 2.

Figure 5 is a top view of the turret for the press taken along line 55 of Figure 2.

Figure 6 is an enlarged somewhat structural arrangement of the turret holding mechanism.

Figure '1 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken along line 1-1 of Figure 2. I

Figure 8 is a horizontal cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a top plan view of the Geneva movement for operating the turret, the view being taken substantially along line 9-9 of Figure 2.

Figure 10 is a partial end elevational view of the injection and feeding mechanism, looking in the direction of the arrow III of Figure 2.

Figure 11 is an end elevational view of the Geneva movement shown in Figure 9 looking in the direction of the arrow I I.

Figure 12 is a chart showing the various steps .of operation of the press as they occur sequentially and simultaneously.

Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to Figure 1, the injection press 01' this invention consists of a frame or bed I0. which is constructed and arranged to form a fluid storage tank IOa, upon which there is mounted a plurality of strain rods ll. These strain rods II extend vertically from the bed I 0 and support a fluid tank I2, which is in communication with the fiuid storage tank Illa .by means of the conduit I2a. The main ram I3 is suitably mounted within the tank I2 and is capable of vertical operation with respect the bed Ill. The turret II is pivotally mounted upon one or the strain rods wall 25.

ii and is adapted to be rotated thereupon by a suitable Geneva movement whereby a plurality of molds it are brought beneath the ram l3 during certain cycles of operation of the machine. The bed ID of the press also supports an injection and feeding unit It, which unit is capable of ejecting plastic materials therefrom into the molds l5.

The bed ill of the press carries the strain rods H in a vertical position, which rods are secured to the bed it by means of the bolts fill. The upper ends of the strain rods ii extend into suitable bosses 2| provided in the tank l2, and are secured thereto by means of the bolts 22. A casting 23 is provided internally of the tang l2 and extends upwardly from the bottom 23 thereof. The casting 23 is bored out to provide a cylinder 25. in which the ramit is arranged to reciprocate.

The ram 25 has a reduced diameter at one end thereof whereby a push back chamber 26 is provided between the ram 23 and the cylinder the ram 26 and cooperates with a cylinder bore 3|. The booster piston 30 is retained in threaded engagement with the upper end of the casting 23, as indicated at 32.v A reduced diameter portion of the booster piston 30 extends through a suitable packing gland 33 provided therearound and in sealing engagement with a retaining fitting 34. The reduced diameter portion 35 is provided with a square head 36 which can be engaged by a suitable wrench for rotating the-booster piston with respect the support casting 23 so as to position the inward end of the booster piston in preper relation with respect the by-pass passages 35a provided in the main-ram.

The ram booster piston 300 consists of a sleeve 30| which is dimensioned so as to provide a close sliding fit with the cylinder bore 3|. The sleeve 30| telescopes over the end of the piston 300 and is retained thereon by means of the nut 302. To seal the space between the sleeve 3M and the piston 300 a plurality of piston rings 303 are positioned therebetween. This arrangement permits a simplified manufacture of the booster piston since the sleeve 30| can be manufactured to close tolerances, and alignment of the sleeve with the cylinder wall 3| can be more easily maintained since the piston rings 303 permit the piston to float within the sleeve 3M.

A fluid inlet 38a is provided to a chamber 31 provided around the reduced diameter portion 35 of the booster piston 30. The booster piston 30 is bored out, as at 38, thereby providing a passage between the chamber 31 and the cylinder 3|, whereby fluid is admittedto the cylinder 3| from a suitable source of pressure. When hydraulic fluid is admitted into the booster cylinder 3| the ram 26 is moved downwardly at a relatively rapid rate, the area above the ram 26 being filled through a check valve 40 from the fluid within the tank |2. When the booster 30 has caused the ram 26 to move downwardly a suflicient distance that the by-pass passages 35a ar adjacent the end or the booster cylinder, the high pressure The space provided between the ram.

asaaood fluid from the pressure line 33a will be admitted to the area above the ram 23 through the pegsages 35a.

The arrangement just described with regard the ram of the injection press provides a rapid traverse of the ram 25 for a closing or pressing operation upon the molds l5, after which high pressure is applied thereupon by meansof fluid passing through the passages 35a. The check or surge valve 30 permits the upper end of the ram cylinder to flll with fluid by suction of the ram 25 when it moves downwardly so that when the passages 35 arrive adjacent the end of the booster piston, pressure from the hydraulic line 36a can be immediately applied upon the large area of the ram. 1

The injection feeding unit for the machine may be of any of the more or less conventional types of mechanism wherein a hopper contains the plastic material to be fed to the injection cylinder 56. A suitable electric motor All! rotates a feeding mechanism within the throat of the hopper 35, whereby a predetermined quantity of material is fed into the injection cylinder 15 upon each return stroke of the injection plunger 63 as governed by a limit switch 33 which controls a suitable timing mechanism for determining the period of operation of the electric motor fill, all of which controls are well-' known in the plastic injection machine art.

The injection plunger 58 is operated by means of a hydraulic motor 32 which is timed in its operation by means of controls to be hereinafter described.

The turret it consists of an upper and lower circular supporting plate 50 andv 5| respectively, which are interconnected by means of a plurality of supporting columns 52. The supporting columns 52 extend downwardly below the lower supporting plate 5| and are adapted to engage a boss 53 provided upon the bed HI. As disclosed in Figure 2, the boss 53 is in alignment with the ram 43 so that when pressure is applied upon the mold |5 to close the same the thrust of the pressure will be absorbed by the bed l0 through the column 52. There may be other bosses 53 positioned around the turret it upon which the columns 52 can be supported. However, the additional bosses are not essential to the operation of the machine.

The upper supporting'plate 50 is arranged to carry a plurality of the molds l5 which are arranged in a ring adjacent the edge of the circular plate 50. The columns 52 are suitably secured to the supporting plate 50, as indicated at 54.

The molds. l5 are arranged in two sections having an upper section I50 and a lower section |5b whereby the mold sections are adapted to beparted upon the parting line |5c. The lower section |5b of the mold 5 is secured to the turret I4, either as a permanent part thereoi or can be arranged to be removably positioned upon the turret. The upper section |5a of the mold |5 is movable vertically with respect the lower section |5b and is carried by means of a plate 55 secured thereto,rwhich in turn is supported by means of the vertically extending rods 56. The lower ends of these rods 56 are carried upon a plate 58 which in turn is supported upon the plunger 59 of a hydraulically actuated motor 60. The supporting column 52 is provided with slots 65 upon opposite sides thereof through which the plate 58 extends, and which permits reciprocation of the-plate with respect the column 52, whereby the upper section Ia of the mold II can be moved with respect the lower section Ilb when the plunger 58 of thehydraulic motor 88 is caused to function as will be hereinafter described. I

The lower section I5b of the mold I5 is provided with a knock out pad I8 which carries a plurality of knock out pins II. extend through the mold section |5b with the ends thereof flush with the surface of the mold cavity. The 'plate 58 carries a block 12 which is adapted to engage the knock out pad I8 upon upward movement thereof caused by the plunger 58, whereby a molded article will be ejected from the mold I5 when the mold sections I50, and

I5b are separated.

The hydraulic motor 88 consists of a cylinder I5 within which a piston 18 is adapted to reciprocate, the cylinder I5 having a suitable 'fluid inlet for admitting fluid below the lower surface of the piston 18, as indicated on the diagrammatic view of Figure 1. The hydraulic motor 88 is supported within the column 52 whereby the motor 88 moves with the turret I4.

Each station upon the turret consists of a mold I5, its cooperating supporting column 52 and a hydraulic motor 88, whereby each mold I5 can be opened or closedat any position around the circumferential travel of the turret l4, as controlled by suitable control mechanism to be hereinafter described.

The turret I 4 is rotatably positioned upon one of the strain rods II and when in a stationary position is adapted to rest upon the boss 53, one or more of which can be positioned upon the base I8 adjacent the resting positions of the columns 52. A pair of hydraulic 'motors 88 is provided for raising the turret vertically during certain cycles of operation. The motors 88 consist of a cylinder 8| and a piston 82 (see Figure 7). A fluid inlet 83 is provided in the lower end of the cylinders '8I whereby admission of fluid into the cylinders 8 I will cause the pistons 82 to rise, thereby carrying a cross head 84 into engagement with a roller bearing 85a. The roller bearing 8511 provides means for eliminating friction between the supporting cross head 84 and.

the turret I4 when it is indexed by means of a Geneva movement to be hereinafter described.

As long as the turret is being indexed by means.

of the Geneva movement'it will be maintained in the raised position by the hydraulic motor 88.

Since the turret I4 is rotatable, and thus carries the hydraulic motors 88, means must be provided for carrying hydraulic fluid to and from the various hydraulic motors 58. To provide for this admission of fluid the strain rod I I, upon These pins passage 85 in the strain rod II.

which the turret I4 is rotationally mounted, is

provided with an upper passage 85 and a lower passage 86. The lower passage 88 communicates with the fluid storage tank I8a, while the upper passage 85 is connected to a suitable variable delivery fluid pump 18. An annular ring or chamber 81 encircles the strain rod II adjacent a pair of cross passages 88 and 88 which communicate with the passages 85 and 88 respectively. The chamber 81 is provided with a packing gland 88 at both ends thereof, and with a dividing packing gland 8|, which separates the internal area of the chamber 81 into a pair of annular spaces 82 and 83. The annular space 82 is in communication with the fluid inlet passage 85 within the strain rod II while the am nular passage 83 is in communication with the fluid return. passage 88 which communicates with the fluid storage tank Illa. A fluid control valve (see Figure 1) is provided having a fluid inlet connection 88 communicating with the annular space 82 and a fluid discharge connection 81 communicating with the annular passage 88. A pair of fluid conduits 88 and 88 interconnect the valve 85 with opposite ends of the hydraulic motor 68, the position of the valve mechanism determining the direction of flow of fluid to and from the opposite ends of the cylinder "of the hydraulic motor 88. The fluid pump 81 has a discharge side thereof connected by means of the conduit I 88 to the fluid While the suction side thereof communicates with a fluid storage tank IN by means of the conduit I82, the fluid return passage 88 in the strain rod II communicates with the fluid tank IN by means ,of the conduit I83.

It is thus seen that a complete hydraulic circuit is provided for operating the hydraulic motor 88 in accordance with the position of the mechanism of the valve 95, the valve mechanism being shifted automatically by means of a cam ring I85 which is carried by the turret H to permit the same to reciprocate therewith but which is retained against rotation. A plunger I86 extends from the valve and engages the surface of the cam ring to cause operation of the valve when in certain positions around the a cam face. The plunger I86 extends from the valve 85 and operates the mechanisms therein to shift the valve to determine the direction of flow of fluid from the ends of the cylinder I5 01 the hydraulic motor 68. Each of the molds I5, provided at the various stations upon the turret ll, are thus controlled by independently operated hydraulic motors for opening and closing 'the mold I5 in accordance with the positionof the mold in its circumferential travel with the turret I 4. The cam ring I85 is of course provided with suitable projections which engage the plunger I86 of the valve 85 to cause the plunger to shift the valve when positioned adjacent the projection on the cam ring I85.

As indicated upon Figure 5, the hydraulic motor 68 is adapted,to operate to close a mold I5 when in the position indicated as mold closing station. The mold, which is at the position indlcated as mold opening station, will be opened by means of a hydraulic motor 68, the opening and closing of the molds being controlled by the valve 85 and the particular shape of the cam ring I85. It is of course understood that the cam ring I85 can be so shaped as to control the opening and closing of the molds I5 by the hydraulic motors 88 when at any one of the positions of the stations provided on the turret l4.

As previously indicated, the turret is adapted.

to be indexed by means of a Geneva movement at periodic intervals in accordance with a prearranged timing circuit. The Geneva movement of the indexing mechanism consists of an electric motor II8 which drives a poweroutput shaft II I through means of a gear box H2. The power shaft I II is provided with a crank arm II3 secured thereto upon which a roller H4 is suitably mounted. The Geneva wheel I I5 is arranged with a plurality of slots H6 in the'edge surface thereof, which slots are adapted to be engaged by the roller 4 when rotated by the crank arm H3, whereby the Geneva wheel is indexed a predetermined number of degrees. The Geneva wheel I I5 is of course suitably secured to the turret I4, and particularly to the bottom supporting plate so that when the wheel H5 is indexed, th e turret I4 will be carried thereby to move the next successive mold I5 into alignment with the ram 26.

A locking pin I is reciprocably mounted adjacent the turret I4 and is adapted to engage an opening IZI provided in the turret wall 50. An opening I2I is provided adjacent each of the stations having a mold thereon, as indicated in Figure 5, whereby engagement of the locking pin I20 with the opening I2I will secure the turret It in a particular indexed position.

The locking pin I20 is controlled in its movement .by means of an electrical solenoid I22 through a series of levers I23, I24 and I25, the lever I23 being pivotally mounted at I26, while the lever I25 is pivotally mounted at I21. The end of the lever I25 is provided with a fork I28 which engages a 'pin I20 mounted upon the look-- ing pin I20. The lever I23 is connected with the armature I30 of the solenoid I22 by means I of the rod I3I Ahelical'spring I32 is positioned below the locking pin I20 and'urges the same toward'the opening I2'I in the turret I4. This arrangement provides mechanism whereby the locking pin I20 will be normally urged into position within the openings I 2I in the turret I4 to lock the same in stationary position during certain cycles of operation of the machine which will be more fully described.

The locking pin I20 is provided with a plunger extension I40 which has a pivotally mounted arm I4I extending therefrom, the arm I4I being mounted in a manner whereby it is rigid against movement upon an upward stroke of the plunger I40 but can be pivoted about its pivot pin upon a downward stroke of the plunger I40. This arrangement provides means for Operating the electric switch I42 in only one direction of movement of the plunger I40. The plunger I40 is also adapted to engage the operating arm I43 of an electric switch I44 upon downward movement thereof, and'retain the arm I43 in a position whereby the switch I44 provides a closed electric circuit until the locking pin I20 is driven into the opening I2I of the turret I4 by means of the spring I32. The electric switch I44 controls a relay I50 which in turn controls the electric motor IIO for starting and stopping operation of the Geneva movement. i

The solenoid I22 is energized by means of an electric switch I52 which has an arm I53 extending into engagement with the surface of the turret I4 so that upward movement of the turret I4 will cause the arm I53 to swing into the position indicated in Figure 1, whereby the switch I52 is closed to make circuit to the solenoid I22. The switch I52 will remain closed until the turret I4 has indexed to, a position wherein the slot I54 is adjacent the arm I53. The arm I53 may then fall into the slot I54 to permit breaking of the circuit in the switch I52 and be pivotally swung to the opposite side from that position indicated in Figure 1, wherebythe switch I52 will remain open until-the turret I4 has been lowered by means of the hydraulic motor 60 A plurality of the slots I54 is provided in the tur- ,ret I4 in proper operative position with regard themoldsl5. 1 f

The hydraulic circuit for controlling 'movethruster I65 which in turn controls shifting of a four-way valve I66 positioned in the hydraulic the aforementioned mechanisms. The pump I21 is a maximum constant pressure type variable delivery pump well known in the art and used commonly with plastic injection machines. The inlet I60 of the pump I61 communicates with the fluid reservoir Illa, while the discharge therefrom communicates with the inlet side of the four-way valve I66 by means of the conduit I60. A return line III is provided from the valve I60 to the suction side of the pump I61, either by way of communication with the fluid inlet I68 or by communication with the fluid reservoir I011. The fluid line I10 connects one side of the valve I60 to the fluid line 36 communicating with the booster 30 of the ram IS. The line I10 also communicates with one side of a hydraulic motor I16. The motor I716 consists of a cylinder I10 and a stationary piston Ill, the cylinder I26 being suitably secured to the injection feeding unit It so that entry of fluid in the chambers provided at the'ends oi the cylinder by the piston division wail therein will control advancement and retraction of the'injection unit I6 with respect the mold It to bring the nozzle I10 of the injection cylinder 06 into or out of engagement with the mold I5. A fluid conduit I is also connected to the valve I66. This conduit communicates with the push back chamber of the ram I3 by means of the 'conduit IOI, the conduit I80 also communicates with the hydraulic motor 80 for elevating the turret I4. A conduit I82 connects the push back chamber 28 of the ram I3 with the opposite end of the hydraulic motor I15 with respect the conduit I10.

This fluid circuit arrangement provides means whereby when the thruster I65 shifts the valve I66 to one position, fluid under pressure is circulated through the discharge conduit I69 through the valve I66, as determined by the ports therein, and into the conduit I80 whereby fluid under pressure is transmitted to the push back chamber 28 of the ram I3, the hydraulic motor 80 for the turret I4, and to the chamber I85 of the hydraulic motor I15.

The total force required to retract the unit I6, to lift the ram 26 and to raise the turret I4 has been predetermined and so ratioed that, the injection unit I6 will be the first element moved by the pressure, thus insuring removal of the nozzle I18 from the mold I5 in advance of movement of either the ram 26 or the turret I4. The total resistances of the ram 26 and of the turret I3 will determine which of these two elements will move first, preferably the ram being elevated prior to the time the turret is raised.

' During this period of retraction of the injection unit, elevation of the ram and the raising of the turret, the return circuit for the fluid for the hydraulic motor I15 and the ,ram I3 has been through the conduit I10. To permit the upper chamber I86 of the ram to clear of fluid during the push back operation, a relief valve I 61 is provided in a by-pass line I88, the valve being controlled by fluid pressure in the conduit I82 through means of the intercommunicating conduit 381:. I

When the thruster I65 is de-energized by the relay I60 the valve I66 is shifted to its opposite position whereby fluid under pressure is then circulated through the conduit I10, and the conduits I80 and I82 become the return conduits for the fluid from the various hydraulic motors asaaose connected thereby. Since the turret I4 was the last element to be moved by the pressure developed in the previously described hydraulic system, it will be seen that the weight oi'the 1 1 thus cause it to be the first element ed to operating position upon a slight release oi pressure in the hydraulic system. The ram 28 will then move downwardly through operation oi the booster 20, the resistance oi the ram to downward motion being less than the resistance to movement oi the injection unit. The injection unit I8 will thus be the last element to be moved into operating position. Since the operation oi the booster 20 oi the ram 28 is such that practically no fluid pressure is developed in the conduit I10 until the ram contacts the mold I 5 it can be seen that considerable time is given the turret I4 to drop into position before the injection unit I8 is advanced by the fluid pressure in the conduit I10.

An electrical timing mechanism is provided for starting the cycling oi various mechanisms, certain of the mechanisms being dependent upon operation of other oi the mechanisms started by the cycle control. The cycle control consists of an electric motor 200 having a shaft 20I extendins therefrom upon which there are mounted three cams 202, 202 and 204. The'cam 202 controls operation of a pair of electric contacts 205 which in turn control the energization of a solenoid 208 for operating a relay 201. The cam 202 controls the operation oi a pair oi contacts 2I0, while the cam 204 controls the operation of a pair oi contacts 2| I.

. The electric motor 200 for the cycle control is initially energized by means of a pair of contacts 212 which are momentarily closed by means oi a pressure switch 2I5, the pivoted latch 2I8 providing means to close the contacts 2I2 upon an upward stroke of the latch 2I8, but it' will not eiiect operation of the contacts 2 I2 upon a downward stroke thereoi. The pressure switch 2I5 is controlled by the pressure existing in the conduit I10 and is thus responsive to fluid pressure from the hydraulic motor I81 when the injection unit I6 and the rain I2 are advanced into engagement with the mold I5. The switch 2 I5 thus starts operation of the cycle control for initiating an in- Jection cycle, to be subsequently described.

The hydraulic system for controlling movement of the injection plunger 48 is controlled by the relay 201. The relay 201 controls energization of a thruster 220 which in turn controls the positioning oi the valve mechanism oi the fourway valve 22I. A variable delivery pump 222, capable of delivering a predetermined maximum pressure, provides the pressure source for operation of the hydraulic motor 42 which in turn moves the injection plunger 48. The hydraulic pump 222 is provided with an inlet 223 communicating with a fluid storage tank 224, and has an outlet 225 communicating with the four-way valve Hi. The valve 22I has a return conduit 228 for conducting fluid from the valve to the fluid storage tank 224. A pair oi conduits 221 and 228 connect ports in the valve 22I with opposite ends oi the cylinder 228 oi the hydraulic motor 42,

-. each oi the molds.

and I 522 ior elevating the temperature thereoi.

Since the molds I5 revolve with the turret I4, a

slip-ring arrangement is provided ior carrying current to the molds II. This arrangement consists oi a plurality oi electrical conducting rings 220 stationarily mounted upon the strain rod II which supports the turret I4, and suitably electrically insulated thereirom, and from each other. A plurality oi posts 22I are vertically positioned upon an insert 222 provided in the supporting plate 50 oi the turret I4. A post 22I is provided ior each oi the molds stationed upon the turret. A plurality oi brush holders 222 is provided upon each oi the posts III and are arranged to be electrically connected to the heating elements positioned within the mold halves I5a and I5b of Each of the brush holders 222 has a brush mounted therein adapted to engage a ring 220 whereby the current will be con- The operation of the machine is as follows:

' Assuming the position oi the apparatus to be as contacts 2i I.

.to the power source was broken. Also, the circuit to the thruster I85 through the relay I80 was broken, whereby the thruster shifted the valve I88 to a position to introduce fluid under pressure into the fluid conduits I80 and I82. The

.fluid pressure has retracted the injection and feeding unit. I6, has lifted the ram I2, and has raised the turret I4. At the time the contacts 2 I 0 were broken contacts 205 were also broken so that the thruster 220 has moved to a position to cause retraction oi the injection plunger 48 within the injection cylinder 48. The mold, I5 is still closed, being retained in that position by means of the hydraulic motor 20, the four-way valve 85 having; been shifted to the proper position for causing closure of the mold.

With these assumptions in mind the cycle of operation is as iollows. reference being made in the subsequent description to Figures 1 and 12. The position of the elements as disclosed in Figure 1, and with the assumptions heretofore made, are such that the cycle of operation begins substantially at the line indicated A on Figure 12.

whereby the piston 220 is caused to reciprocate The turret I4 has been raised by the hydraulic motor whereby the arm I52 of the electric switch I52 has moved upwardly to close circuit through the solenoid I 22. Energization oi the solenoid "I22 causes removement oi the locking pin I20 from the locking opening I2I in the turret I4. The downward movement of the locking pin I20 and its associated plunger I3I causes the end of theplunger to engage the operating arm oi the switch I44, whereby circuit is made through the conductor 260, the relay I50 and the conductor 282, whereby the relay I50'is closed to energize the motor I I0. The motor I I0 will thus drive the Geneva movement comprising the crank arm I I3 and the Geneva wheel II5 to start indexing the turret I 4.

Shortly after the turret begins indexing the arm I52 of the switch I52 drops into a recess I54 in the turret I4 whereby circuit is broken through the switch I52, thereby'deenergizing the solenoid I 22. The de-energization of the solenoid I22 permits the spring I32 to move the locking pin I20 2 into engagement with the under side of the supporting plate 50 of the turret I4 so that the pin I20 will be ready to engage the next successive locking opening I2I. The switch I52 cannot again make circuit until the turret I4 is lowered, since the arm I63 thereof will be swung to the left-hand position by the recesses I54 when the turret is indexing.

Upon the turret reaching its next successive position, the molds I5 arrivin at the stations indicated at C and D of Figure 5 will be closed and opened respectively, a valve 95 for the mold reaching the station C being shifted by the cam ring I05 to cause operation of the hydraulic circuit associated therewith in a mannerto close the mold I5 by means of a hydraulic motor 60, while the mold I5 reaching the station D will be opened by means of a hydraulic motor 60 since the valve 95 associated therewith will be shifted to a position by means of the cam ring I05to allow such operation. Once the valve has initiated this operation, movement of the mold halves I5a will occur until completion thereof at which time the variable delivery pump wil reach a maximum pressure and shift to neutral by means of a control well-known in the art.

At the same instant the locking pin I moves into the locking opening I2 I, whereby the pivoted lever Ml engages the operating arm of the switch I02 to momentarily close the same whereby circult is made through the conductor 265, the switch I42, the conductor 266, the solenoid IGI to the power source for momentary energization of the solenoid I6I.

Energization of the solenoid I6I closes the relay I60 whereby circuit is made to the thruster I65 and a circuit is made through the conductor I, the contacts 252, the conductor 253, the contacts M0, the conductor 254, the solenoid I6I to the power source whereby a holding circuit for the solenoid I6I is provided. 1

The thruster I65 will then shift the valve I66 to cause fluid under pressure to be discharged through the conduit I10, the conduits I80, I8I and I82 becoming fluid return conduits for fluid returning to the fluid reservoir I0a, whereby the turret I4 is permitted to drop until the supporting column 52 strikes the supporting boss 53. The discharge of fluid under pressure through the conduit I10 causes the booster of the ram I3 to move the same downwardly. However, the pressure will not build up in the line I10 until the ram I3 has contacted the mold I5 which has been moved thereunder. When the ram I3 contacts the mold I5 sumcient pressure will be built up in the conduit I10 and the chamber 210 to cause the injection feeding unit I6 to advance toward the mold I5 and engage the nozzle I18 thereof with the mold I5. Pressure will then build up in the ram I3 for clamping the mold together for injection of plastic material. When the pressure in the conduit I10 increases to a sufficient extent the pressure switch 2I5 will expand and cause the pivoted lever 2I6 to close the contacts 2I2 as it approaches and moves past the operating arm for the contacts 2 I 2. The momentary closure of the contacts 2 I 2 energizes the cycle control motor 200 whereby the cams 202, 203 and 204are started upon a rotation cycle.

When the cams 202,203 and 204 begin rotation, contacts 2 II are immediately closed whereby a complete revolution of the cams driven thereby.

Shortly after the holding circuitis made, the contacts 205 are closed by the cam 202 whereby circuit is established to the solenoid 206 to close the relay 201, thereby energizing the thruster 220.

When the turret was lowered the injection plunger 46 had reached its complete return stroke from a former cycle. whereby the switch 49 is closed by a collar 211 secured to the injection plungerv 46 engaging the switch lever to start the timing mechanism for controlling a feeding cycle. A predetermined quantity of plastic material is fed into the injection cylinder 46. This timing of the feed mechanism is such that the feeding will stop when the injection thruster 220 has shifted the valve 22I to a position which beginsthe injection cycle, suitable automatic mechanism, well known in the plastic injection art, being provided for the purpose.

The energization of the thruster 220 by the relay 201 shifted the valve 22I to establish fiuid pressure to the rear end of the piston 230 of the hydraulic motor 42 whereby the injection plunger is started forward on an ejecting operation. The ejection plunger moves forward for an ejecting operation and remains in the forward position until the cam 202 has rotated to a position whereby the recessed portion 218 passes under the control arm for the contacts 205. At this instant the contacts 205 are broken and the solenoid 20.6 is de-energized to open the relay 201, whereby the thruster 220 shifts the valve 22I to establish pressure fluid within the conduit 228, thereby establishing a retraction stroke of the plunger 48. Substantially at the same time the contacts 2I0 have been opened by the control arm thereof reaching the recess 250 in the cam 203, the holding circuit to the solenoid I6I is weight and resistance of the various elements to the pressure established in the conduits.

The system is now in the same condition which started the cycle, except that the cycle control motor 200 is still functioning, and will function until the control arm for the contacts 2II break circuit therethrough by means of the control arm falling into a recess 280, whereby the holding circuit for the motor 200 is broken. This again establishes the cycle control in position for the beginning of the next cycle of operation.

The plastic injection machine herein described has not been specifically mentioned with regard either the use of thermoplatic or thermosetting resins. However, the machine can be used with either type of plastic material and is particularly adaptable for use with the thermosetting resins since the improved cycle of operation establishes a sufliciently rapid automatic cycle of operation by which the thermosetting plastic material can II are continuously heated through their circuit.

around the turret so that the plastic material is injected into a hot mold and will be subsequent- 1y heated through the various indexed stations i through which the. molding is carried after leaving the molding station. It is of course to be understood that the machine is capable of injection molding either the thermoplastic o r thermosetting resins depending upon whether the mold i8 is heated or is cooled. The thermoplastic resins can be injection molded upon this machine by merely disconnecting the heating circuit to the mold.

While the form and embodiment herein disclosed and described is a preferred form, yet 1 other modifications are conceivablelwhich are to be included within the scope of my invention.

Having thus fully described our invention, what we claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In a machine for imection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, means for elevating said turret from said support to permit rotation thereof, a ram, means for reciprocating said ram to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and means for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, the effective operating force of the respective operating means for said injection unit, ram and turret being proportioned to the size, weight and frictional resistance of the respective members and with respect to one another to cause operation of the injection unit, ram and turret by their respective operating means in a prearranged sequence.

2. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, hydraulic means for elevating said turret from said support for the same to permit rotation thereof, a ram, hydraulic means for reciprocating said ram to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and hydraulic means for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said hydraulic means for operating said injection unit, said ram and said turret being supplied with fluid simultaneously at a common pressure, said hydraulic operating means for said injection unit, said ram and said turret having their eii'ective operating force proportioned to the size, weight and frictional resistance of the respective members and with respect to one another for establishing a prearranged sequence of operation.

3. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, hydraulic means for elevating said turret from said support for the same to permit rotation thereof, a ram, hydraulic means for reciprocating said ram to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and hydraulic means for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said hydraulic means for operating said injection unit, said ram and said turret being supplied with fluid simultaneously at a common pressure, said hydraulic operating means'for said injection unit, said ram and said turret having their eflective operating force proportioned to the size, weight and frictional resistance of the respective members and with respect to one another for establishing a prearranged sequence of operation, the forces for moving said three elements being arranged in a determined ratio to the common pressure in a manner that the injection unit is retracted from said mold before said turret is elevated.

4. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, hydraulic imeans for elevating said turret from said support for the same to permit rotation thereof, a ram, hydraulic means for reciprocating said ram to apply pressure upon said-mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and hydraulic means for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said hydraulic means for operating said injection unit, said ram and said turret being supplied with fluid simultaneously at a common pressure, said hydraulic operating means for said injection unit, said ram and said turret having their eflective operating force proportioned to the size, weight and frictional resistance of the respective members and with respect to one another for establishing a prearranged sequence of operation, the forces for moving said three elements being arranged in a determined ratio to the common pressure in a manner that said turret is lowered to its operating position before said injection'unit engages said mold.

5. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, a hydraulic motor for elevating and lowering said turret with respect to said support for the same to per-- mil: intermittent rotation thereof, a ram, a hydraulic motor for reciprocating said ram with respect to said mold to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and a hydraulic motor for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said motors being connected to a common source of fluid pressure constructed and arranged for increasing fluid pressure upon said motors, said injection unit, said hydraulic motors for said ram and said turret being constructed and arranged in a manner that the actuating force of the hydraulic motors for operating their respective means is proportioned one to the other to produce a determined sequence of operation of said units when fluid pressure is increased upon said motors.

6. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, a hydraulic motor for elevating and lowering said turret with respect to said support for the same to permit intermittent rotation thereof, a ram, a hydraulic motor for reciprocating said ram with respect to said mold to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and a hydraulic motor for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said motors being connected to a common source of fluid pressure constructed and arranged for increasing fluid pressure upon said motors, said injection unit, said hydraulic motors for said ram and said turret being constructed and arranged in a manner that the actuating force of the hydraulic motors for operating their respective means is proportioned one to the other to produce a determined sequence of operation of said units when fluid pressure is increased upon said motors, said turret being constructed and arranged to offer greater resistanoe to movement for lifting thereof than the resistance offered by said injection unit for retraction thereof out of engagement with said mold but less resistance to movement for lowering thereof than the resistance of said injection unit for advancement thereof into engagement with said mold.

7.. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a support, a turret movable on said support, a mold carried by said turret, a hydraulic motor for elevating and lowering said turret with respect to said support for-the same to permit intermittent rotation thereof, a ram, a hydraulic motor for reciprocating said ram with respect to said mold to apply pressure upon said mold when disposed beneath said ram, an injection unit, and a hydraulic motor for moving said injection unit into and out of engagement with said mold, said motors being connected to a common source of fluid pressure constructed and arranged for increasing fluid pressure upon said motors, said injection unit, said hydraulic motors for said ram and said turret being constructed and arranged in a manner that the actuating force of the hydraulic motors for operating their respective means is proportioned one to the other to produce a determined sequence of operation of said units when fluid pressure is increased upon said motors, said turret being constructed and arranged to offer greater resistance to movement for lifting thereof than the resistance offered by said injection unit for retraction thereof out of engagement with said mold but less resistance to movement for lowering thereof than the resistance of said injection unit for advancement thereof into engagement with said mold, said ram being constructed and arranged to offer resistance intermediate that of said turret and said injection unit to cause operation thereof during an intervening interval.

8. In a machine for injection molding plastic materials, a turret, a plurality of molds comprising die halves supported on said turret, means attached to one of said die halves for reciprocating the same with respect to the other die half to open and close said mold provided thereby, an injection unit adjacent said turret providing a mold station, means for indexing said turret to ing the same with respect to the other die half to open and close said mold provided thereby, an injection unit adjacent said turret providing a mold station, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds into the mold station, means operated by indexing of the turret for actuating'said reciprocating means for closing said die halves in advance of reaching the mold station, and means for applying clamping pressure upon said die halves when in the mold station. e

10. A, machine for molding plastic materials assaose upon said frame and having a plurality of molds positioned thereon, means for applying clamping pressure upon said molds, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent the clamping means, and a supporting column in alignment with said mold and said ram interposed between said turret and said frame to support said turret when clamping pressure is applied to said molds.

11. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a frame, a turret rotatably mounted upon said frame and having a plurality of molds positioned thereon, means for applying clamping pressure upon said molds, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds beneath the clamping means, and a supporting column carried by said turret in alignment with each mold comprising, a frame, a turret rotatably mounted 15 adapted to support said turret when the respective molds are disposed beneath said clamping means and clamping pressure is applied to the mold by said clamping means.

12. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a frame, a turret rotatably mounted upon said frame and having a plurality of molds positioned thereon, means for opening and closing said molds, means for applying clamping pressure upon said molds, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds beneath the clamping means, and a supporting column interposed between said turret and said frame to sup port said turret when clamping pressure is applied to said molds, said mold opening and closing means being positioned within said column.

13. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a frame, a turret rotatably mounted upon said frame and having a plurality of molds positioned thereon, individual means for opening and closing each of said molds, means for apply-' ing clamping pressure upon said molds, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds beneath the clamping means, and supporting columns carried by said turret interposed between said turret and said frame to support said turret when the respective molds are disposed beneath said clamping means and clamping pressure is applied to said molds, one of said molds opening and closing means being positioned within each of said columns.

14. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising, a frame, a turret rotatably mounted upon said frame, a plurality of molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection feeding unit reciprocably carried upon said frame, means for advancing and retracting said unit with respect to said turret, means for elevating said turret to permit indexing thereof, means for indexing said turret, and means for supporting said turret when in the lowered position.

15. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a frame, a turret, means extending from said frame providing a vertical axle for said turret, anti-friction means on said axle for supporting said turret, means for indexing said turret, hydraulic means engaging said anti-friction means to hold said turret in an elevated position while the same is being indexed, and a plurality of columns carried by said turret at least one of which supports said turret whenin the lowered position.

16. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a frame, a plurality of strain rods extending upwardly from said frame, a ram carried by saidvstrain rods and disposed in parallel relation thereto, a turret, one of said strain rods m-fi e pon which said tiuret is ro- I aaaaooo .tatably mounted, a plastic injection feeding unit arranged in operative association with said turret, a plurality of columns carried by said turret in axial alignment with said molds, hydraulically actuated means carried within said columns for opening and closing the mold which is in alignment with saidcolumn, a plastic injection feeding unit movable into engagement with said molds, and means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent said injection unit.

18'. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a supporting frame, a turret rotatably mounted upon said frame, a vertically acting ram for elevating said turret, a plurality of molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection unit in operative association with said turret, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent said injection unit, means for holding said turret in an elevated position while the same is being indexed, and means actuated by the turret upon elevation thereof for initiating operation an indexed position, and means actuated by said locking means for automatically starting and stopping said indexing means.

20. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a supporting frame, a turret, an axle extending from said frame, said turret being positioned upon said axle for rotation and reciprocation thereon, a ram in operative association with said turret, a plurality of molds carried-by said turret, a plastic injection unit in operative association with said turret, means for rotatably indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent said injection unit, means for elevating said turret from said frame, said elevating means holding said turret in elevated position during indexing thereof, and means actuated by said turret upon elevation thereof for initiating operation of the said indexing means, and means actuated by said turret upon completion of said indexing operation for initiating operation of an injection cycle of said plastic injection unit.

2 A turret type plastic injection machine comprising a frame, a turret, an axle extending from said frame, said turret being positioned upon said axle for rotation and reciprocation thereon, means for elevating said turret from said frame, means for rotatably indexing said turret, means for locking said turret in an indexed position, means actuated by said turret upon elevation thereof for unlocking said locking means. and means actuated by said locking means upon unlocking thereof for starting said indexing means and for stopping said indexing-means when said locking means enters locking engagement with said turret.

a motion thereof.

22. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a supporting frame, a turret, an axle extending from said frame, said turret being posi tioned upon said axle for rotation and reciprocation thereon, a ram in operative association with said turret, a plurality of molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection unit in operative association with said turret, means for rotatably indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent said injection unit, means for elevating said turret from said frame, said elevating means holding said turret in elevated position during indexing thereof, means for lockinggsaid turret in position with respect'to said frame, an electric switch means actuated by said turret upon elevation thereof for unlocking said locking means, means actuated by said locking means for initiating operation of said indexing means upon an unlocking motion,-and means actuated by said locking means for initiating an injection cycle of said injection unit upon a locking 23. A plastic injection machine comprising a turret, means for rotatably and reciprocably supporting said turret, a plurality of molds carried on said turret, a plastic injection unit in operative association with said turret, hydraulic means for advancing and retracting said injection unit with respect to said turret, timing mechanism for controlling operation of said injection unit, a hydraulically actuated ram for applying closing pressure upon said molds during an injection cycle of said injection unit, means for indexing said turret to bring successive molds adjacent said injection unit-hydraulic means for elevating said turret and for holding the same in elevated position while indexing the turret, means for looking said turret in indexed position, an electric switch means actuated by said turret upon elevation thereof for unlocking said locking means, means actuated by said locking means for initiating an indexing motion of said turret upon an unlocking motion, and means actuated by said locking means upon a locking motion for initiating operation of the hydraulic means for closing said ram, lowering said turret, advancing said injection unit and for initiating operation of said timing mechanism.

24. An'electrical system for a plastic injection machine which includes alturret, an injection unit, and a plurality of molds carried by said turret for positioning adjacent the injection unit; comprising an electric switch means actuated by the turret upon elevation of the turret for initiating an indexing operation of the turret, electric switch means actuated upon completion of the' indexing operation of the turret for initiating operation of the injection cycle of the machine, and an electrical timing mechanism initiated in operation by said last mentioned switch means cent said turret, a plurality of molds carried by said turret for positioning adjacent said injection unit and a mold clamp, an electrical control system; comprising switch means actuated by the turret upon elevation of the turret for operating v operation of a second electric switch means, said operation of the hydraulic system which controls vertical movement or the turret, application of hydraulic pressure to the hold clamping device and advancement of the injection unit asaaose associated with each or said molds for opening and closing the same. a fluid new control valve associated with each or said motors, a noninto engagement with the mold, and the initilation of a timing mechanism which controls the operation of the injection. unit. I

26. A turret type plastic injection machineineluding a turret, means for locking said turret,

means for indexing said turret, a mold clamping ram, molds carried by ,said turret, a plastic injection unit, and hydraulic motors for operating said turret, said ramand said injection unit, said machine having a motivating system comprising a hydraulic system for applying pressure upon the mold clamping device of the machine and ior advancing the injection unit into engagement with the mold, a second hydraulic system tor operating the injection unit, a timing mechanism for controlling the operation of the second hydraulic system, electric switch means actuated by the turret locking mechanism for controlling second switch means controlling operation of the first mentioned hydraulic system and initiating operation of the itiming mechanism.

27. A turret type plastic injection machine including a turret, means for locking said turret, means for indexing said turret, a mold clamprotatable cam ring associated with said valves, said control valves having means engaging a cam ring to operate said valves, means for indexing said turret, and means for elevating said turret, said" valve means operatively controlling fluid flow to said hydraulic motors'when moyed by the indexing motion or said turret with respect to said cam rings 31. A hydraulic system for opening and closing the molds positioned upon the turret of a turret type plastic injection machine including a turret, a hydraulic motor supported upon said turret ior moving one r said molds with respect to the other, a fluid flow control valve associated with said motor, a circular'non rotatable cam ring associated with said valve, a valve control arm extending from said valve into engagement with said cam ring, means for rotatably indexing the turret, said valve means being operated by the indexing motion of said turret with respect to said cam ring to control the direction of fluid flow through said hydraulic motor.

ing ram, molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection unit, hydraulic motors for operating said turret, said ram and said injection unit, said machine having a motivatingsystem comprising a hydraulic system for applying pressure upon the mold clamping device of the machine and for advancing the injection unit into engagement with the mold, a second hydraulic system for operating the injection unit, a timing mechanism for controlling the operation oi the second hydraulicsystem, electric switch means actuated by the turret locking mechanism for controlling operation of a second electric switch means, said second switch means controlling operation of the first mentioned hydraulic system and initiating operation of the, timing mechanism, and means operated by pressure developed in the first mentioned hydraulic system for initiating operation of the last mentioned hydraulic system.

28. An injection machine comprising a turret, means rotatably and reciprocably supporting said turret, a plurality of molds, positioned circumferentially upon said turret, means for opening and closing said molds, meansfor indexing said turret, means for elevating said turret while indexingthesame, and means operated by said elle vating and indexing motion of said turret for operating said mold opening and closing means for controlling the'opening and closing of said molds.

29. An injection machine comprising a turret,

means rotatably and reciprocably' supporting said 32. A machine for the injection molding of plastic materials comprising a turret, means rotatably and reciprocably supportingsaid turret, a hydraulic motor for elevating said turret, means for indexing said turret while-elevated, a plurality of molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection unit reciprocably supported with respect to said turret and said molds, an injection plunger reciprocable in said injection unit, a hydraulic motor associated with said molds for closing the same prior to injection 01! plastic material therein by said injection unit and for opening the olds after the material is injected thereinto, a hydraulic motor for advancing said injection unit into engagement with said molds prior to injection and retracting said unit from said molds after injection, a hydraulic motor for operating said injection plunger 0! said injection unit while said unit is in engagement with one of said molds, a cycle control mechan sm for said plunger motor, a hydraulic motor forapplying clamping pressure upon said molds during injection or plastic material thereinto, a hydraulic system including means for delivering fluid at a relatively constant pressure for actuating the mold gpening and closing hydraulic motor operated in response to indexing of said turret, a hydraulic system having a relatively constant pressure for actuating said injection plunger operated in response to said cycle control mechanism, and a hydraulic system having a rela-- tively constant pressure operated in response to completion oi a cycle of operation of said cycle control mechanism for actuating said turret elevating motor, said injection unit advancing motor and said clamping motor.

33. A machine for the injection molding of ,plastic materials comprising a turret, means rotatable and reciprocably supporting said turret, a hydraulic motor for elevating said turret, means for indexing said turret while elevated, a plurality oi! molds carried by said turret, a plastic turret, a plurality of molds positioned circuming the molds after the material is injected thereinto, a hydraulic motor for advancing said injection unit into engagement with said molds prior to injection and retracting said unit from said molds after injection, 9. hydraulic motor for operating said injection plunger 01' said injection unit while said unit is in engagement with one or said molds. a cycle control mechanism for said plunger motor, a hydraulic motor for applying clamping pressure upon said molds during injection of plastic material thereinto, a hydraulic system having a relatively constant pressure for actuating the mold opening and closing hydraulic motor operated in response to indexing of said turret, a hydraulic system having a relatively constant pressure for actuating said injecticn plunger operated in response to said cycle control mechanism, a hydraulic system including means for delivering fluid at a relatively constant pressure operated in response to completion of a cycle of operation of said cycle control mechanism for actuating said turret elevating motor, said injection unit advancing motor and said clamping motor, and electrical switch means actuated by said turret upon elevation thereof for initiating sequential operation oi a series 01' electrical switch circuits for controlling cyclic operation of said hydraulic systems.

34. A machine for molding plastic materials comprising a base, a turret, molds carried by said turret, a plastic injection unit supported upon saidbase and associated with said turret, a ram positioned above said turret for applying pressure upon said molds, and a plurality of columns extending upwardly from said base supporting said ram in alignment with one of said molds, one of said columns supporting said turret for rotation thereon to permit said molds to be successively aligned with said ram.

35. A plastic injection machine comprising a bed, a plastic injection unit, means reciprocably mounting said unit upon said bed, a vertically acting ram, a plurality of columns extending up-.

wardly from said bed for supporting said ramabove said .bed, a turret journaled upon one of said columns, hydraulically actuated means for elevating said turret upon said column, and means for rotatably indexing said turret while elevated. v

REIDER THORESON. WALTER ERNST. 

